Subsidy Password
The term, Subsidy Password, is used by Motorola and other handset manufacturers to refer to the 8-digit code unlock code necessary to remove the operator lock from cell phones. This code is randomly assigned to individual cell phones by the OEM on request of the mobile service operator and prevents the use of a particular phone on a cellular network other than that to which the phone was originally sold.
Justification for use
The term "subsidy" refers to the subsidization of cell phones sold to customers that purchase mobile phones as part of a contract with the mobile service operator. Many network operators provide these subsidies as an incentive for users to sign extended contracts, and use the subsidy lock as a means of protecting their investment. The installation of such locks means that users often are forced to purchase a different phone if they decide to switch their network.CDMA cellular providers that use subsidy locks on their handsets:
Ntelos,
Cricket,
Sprint,
Quest,
Philippines Cellular,
SureWest,
Telus &
Bell Mobility
GSM:
globe
smart
sun
Alltel or Verizon Wireless do not use any type of subsidy locks on their CDMA phones.
Default Code:000000 or 123456 or 654321
Prepaid cellphones from Alltel & Verizon Wireless come locked from the store, but Verizon Wireless prepaid cellphones can be unlocked with a call to Verizon.